BMC slashes producer prices to recoup losses
Friday, August 06, 2010
But the cost cutting measure is likely to boomerang by discouraging cattle farmers from selling to the BMC, leading to a considerably reduced throughput
In a statement released this week the BMC said that from August 1, they will be reducing cattle prices by an incremental 10 thebe each week, over a period of 20 weeks.In an immediate response to the news of slashed producer prices, the Cattle Producers Association of Botswana describes it as "a self-sabotaging strategy" that will send a negative signal to farmers and disincentivise them.
The Ministry of Agriculture, local producers, retailers, and industry associations must work together to overcome the obstacles hindering vegetable production and distribution.This collaborative approach is essential to improve the availability, quality, and affordability of vegetables in the market.Firstly, the Ministry of Agriculture should provide support and guidance to local farmers to enhance their productivity and efficiency. This could...